Into the Wild: A Deep Ecology Experiment

The film Into the Wild begins with a quote from Lord Byron: "...I love not man less, but nature more..." This quote seems to adequately describe the view of the deep ecology philosophy. Deep ecology is a philosophy of respecting nature for its intrinsic rather than instrumental value. This means that humans should value nature not because it provides some good or service to humanity but simply because it exists. This view of nature seems to be that held by Alex Supertramp, the film's main character. In the film, Alex gives up nearly all he has in favor of living off the land in Alaska. He wants to escape society in order to find "freedom and simple beauty" in the wilderness. Alex's view of nature is clearly consistent with those of deep ecology. After living in the wilderness for some time, Alex actually becomes unable to leave nature as a result of a fast moving river that he is unable to cross. Alex eventually dies without ever returning to society again.

While I understand and respect Alex's actions to leave society in favor of a life closer to nature I feel that he took the deep ecology philosophy to an unhealthy extreme. He completely abandoned all those who loved him and ventured into the wilderness with little experience or expertise. Part of Alex's reasons for escaping from society seems to be his past; as a child Alex's parents were very wealthy but also constantly fighting. Alex ultimately experienced love not through affection but through presents and things. On his way to Alaska, however, Alex meets several people that genuinely love and care for him but abandon's them in favor of his wilderness goal. Alex seems to believe that nature will ultimately make him happy. Upon his death, however, he realizes that human interactions are an essential part of happiness when he writes "Happiness only really matters when shared." This is ultimately the moment that Alex realizes what deep ecology is all about. It isn't about forsaking humankind in favor of a more primitive lifestyle but appreciating nature within human societies. Ultimately, Alex seems to forget a key part what Lord Byron says, "...I love not man less..."